Former Coach Awaits Trial for Theft of School Funds

A former Crystal Lake South High School athletic director and varsity football coach accused of theft and computer fraud is still awaiting his day in court. 

James K. Stuglis, 41, was arrested Oct. 14, 2010, on 10 counts of felony theft and three counts of felony computer fraud. He was released on $40,000 bond–a bond that was modified on Feb. 16 at the request of his attorneys to allow him to travel to Wisconsin for a vacation, according to court documents. 

Stuglis’ Woodstock legal defense, Gummerson Rausch Wand Gray Wombacher, LLC, also petitioned the court on Feb. 16 dismiss the case based on possible misconduct during the grand jury’s investigation. The law firm did not immediately return phone calls inquiring about the nature of the petition.  

McHenry County Circuit Court Judge Joseph P. Condon scheduled the next court appearance for March 16, where he will consider the defense’s motion to reconsider.

Crystal Lake Police were notified by School District 155 officials March 24 concerning an initial allegation of theft of Crystal Lake South High School funds when a large sum of money was found in Stuglis' office.

According to police, Stuglis allegedly collected monies from a vending machine and a fundraising program—neither of which was reported to the school district—and under reported the number of spectators at playoff games and cash proceeds from ticket sales to the Illinois High School Association.

Stuglis resigned from his position as Athletic Director and Head Varsity Football Coach of Crystal Lake South High School in June, 2010.